Why is teeth whitening so painful?

Author: Dr. Randal Lubowitz  |  Last update: Wednesday, August 6, 2025

If you experience increased tooth sensitivity or gum irritation after these whitening methods, it might be because the products are overly abrasive or acidic, which wears away tooth enamel and irritates gums. 1 Meanwhile bleaching agents such as peroxide can irritate the nerves inside your teeth.

How to stop teeth hurting after whitening?

Try a desensitizing toothpaste

If you have sensitivity before you start whitening, it is recommended to use a desensitizing toothpaste two weeks prior to your at-home whitening treatment, as well as continued use during and after whitening treatment.

Why do dentists not recommend teeth whitening?

While teeth whitening is popular these days, dentists generally don't recommend it because of the stripping of the enamel layer making the enamel layer wear off and further leading to sensitivity issues. For example, you have bought 2 new t-shirts.

Is it normal for teeth whitening to hurt?

Whitening agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, are designed to be safe for teeth but can irritate delicate gum tissue. When these chemicals come into contact with the gums, they may cause redness, swelling, or even a burning sensation, leading to discomfort.

What is the least painful way to whiten teeth?

Custom teeth whitening trays

Custom-fit trays prevent the whitening solution from spilling, which avoids gums and tongue irritation. Like other procedures that can whiten your teeth, it is also non-invasive, making it a better option for those with sensitive teeth.

Teeth Whitening SIDE EFFECTS

What teeth Cannot be whitened?

Teeth that have yellowed with age

Dentin is naturally yellowish and cannot be lightened with teeth whitening products.

How to whiten your teeth in just 2 minutes?

Brush off the stains with Baking Soda

It is an inexpensive and easy home remedy for teeth whitening. To use this home remedy: Add a few drops of water to baking soda until you form a paste. Apply the mixture to the toothbrush bristles and brush as usual for about two minutes.

How can I make my teeth whitening less painful?

Taking pain medication, such as Advil (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen), can help reduce or prevent symptoms if you take it before applying the whitening product. Use a product with less peroxide. While you may think that a higher level of peroxide might give you a better result, it's not worth it if you have pain.

Can teeth look worse after whitening?

Teeth can become temporarily dehydrated after using whitening strips. Your teeth may appear more yellow as a result of this dehydration because the enamel may become dry and lack moisture. Dehydrated enamel sometimes has a transparent appearance that makes the naturally yellowish dentin underneath visible.

Does ibuprofen help teeth sensitivity?

Over the counter painkillers: If your teeth are sensitive, toothaches may be alleviated with pain medication such as Ibuprofen, which will help numb the pain and reduce inflammation.

Who Cannot have teeth whitening?

Your dentist will advise you whether whitening is right for you. It may be that teeth whitening isn't suitable, for example if you have gum disease or crowns.

Why shouldn't you brush your teeth before whitening?

Wait before applying Whitestrips: It's essential to wait 30 minutes after brushing before applying Whitestrips. Brushing can temporarily weaken your enamel, making it more sensitive. Waiting allows your teeth to recover and minimizes the risk of sensitivity.

Do crest white strips work?

While they are extremely popular, many people still question whether or not they actually are effective at whitening teeth. The short answer is yes, they do in fact whiten your teeth over time, but whitening strips are not the best way to whiten your teeth!

What is the best pain relief for teeth whitening?

Use Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can provide short-term relief from pain and discomfort. However, it's essential to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional if the pain persists.

Why do my teeth hurt so bad after whitening strips?

Teeth sensitivity happens because the tooth enamel becomes thinner and less protective after the whitening process. To reduce teeth sensitivity while using whitening strips, you must use a desensitizing toothpaste or mouthwash. You will also need to avoid acidic foods with high sugar content.

How long does it take for teeth to heal after whitening?

How long does it take for teeth to heal after whitening? Typically, it takes 48-72 hours for teeth to heal properly after whitening. During this time, maintaining proper dental care and adopting healthy oral habits is essential.

How long until my teeth stop hurting after whitening?

Tooth sensitivity after whitening is usually caused by irritation of your tooth's nerve (pulp) after being exposed to peroxide — a common ingredient in whitening products. Tooth sensitivity and gum pain after whitening should only last a few days.

Why are teeth more yellow after whitening?

Whitening strips often contain peroxide-based chemicals to eliminate enamel stains, which may lead to temporary irritation and redness of the gums. This redness creates a visual contrast that can make the teeth seem more yellow.

Why do whitening strips only cover the front teeth?

We do not recommend using Crest 3D Whitestrips on your back teeth because the strips are specially designed to fit front teeth — the teeth shown when you smile. If you use Whitestrips on the back teeth, the strips may become loose and eventually fall off during the wear period as a result.

Why do I have unbearable pain after teeth whitening?

Teeth sensitivity after whitening is not uncommon, and it usually occurs when the bleaching agents used in the whitening process penetrate the enamel and reach the tooth's nerve centre, known as the pulp.

Is there a non-painful way to whiten teeth?

The Crest Whitestrips for Sensitive Teeth work like the other strips in Crest's lineup: just wear them once a day for 30 minutes and follow up with the light for five minutes, and you should see full results in about two weeks—all without tooth pain.

How long after teeth whitening can I eat normally?

It should be safe to resume your regular diet 48 hours after teeth whitening. Limiting your diet may seem like a daunting task. But this temporary sacrifice can help you achieve a brighter and whiter smile.

How do people get their teeth so white?

As well as cosmetic dental treatment and teeth whitening procedures, people also get their teeth so white by avoiding food and drink that stains teeth yellow.

Can yellow teeth become white again?

Yellow teeth can regain whiteness through various methods, including good oral hygiene, professional dental cleanings, and teeth-whitening treatments. Stains from coffee, tea, or tobacco can be removed with adequate oral care, while professional procedures like bleaching or laser treatments offer quicker results.

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